Business
Saudi Arabia signs deal with Archer Aviation to launch air taxi services
Saudi Arabia has taken another step toward next-generation mobility with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with US-based Archer Aviation to develop and operate air taxi services across the Kingdom.
Announced during the CoMotion Global Summit 2025, held at Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the agreement positions the Kingdom to become a leading hub for advanced air mobility (AAM), supported by emerging technologies and global standards.
GACA said the MoU forms part of its wider mission to build the regulatory and operational foundations for AAM systems in Saudi Arabia, paving the way for new forms of urban air transport and strengthening the Kingdom’s long-term mobility strategy.
Air taxi flights in Saudi Arabia
Under the agreement, GACA and Archer will cooperate to enhance and update the regulatory framework governing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft operations in the Kingdom.
This includes maintaining alignment with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification standards to ensure that future services meet stringent international safety requirements.
The partnership also includes a programme of test flights and proof-of-concept operations that will help validate the regulatory approach, support infrastructure planning and improve public readiness for air taxi adoption.
The MoU reflects Saudi Arabia’s goal of transforming its major cities into global centres for advanced mobility and deploying technology-driven solutions that support economic diversification and urban development.
